Definition

Verb (phrasal verb): - To confront and begin to deal with a difficult or challenging situation, problem, or emotion: It means to face something demanding directly and start to understand, accept, or manage it effectively.

Usage

This phrasal verb is used to describe the process of engaging with a significant difficulty, often one that is complex, emotional, or abstract. It implies a transition from avoidance or confusion to a state of active management or acceptance.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a connotation of struggle and effort. It is not used for simple, routine tasks.
• It is frequently followed by the preposition "with" to introduce the specific problem or subject.
• Common in both personal/emotional contexts (e.g., grief, change) and professional/practical contexts (e.g., a complex task, a new system).

Variants and Related Words

• Come to terms with: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably, especially for emotional acceptance.
  • He needed time to come to terms with his failure.
• Grapple with: Suggests a more intense, ongoing struggle.
  • Scientists are grappling with the ethical implications of the discovery.

Synonyms

• Confront
• Deal with
• Face up to
• Tackle
• Address

Related Idioms

• Get a grip on (something): To gain understanding or control over a situation.
  • I need to get a grip on my schedule. (Note: "Get a grip" alone can also mean to control one's emotions.)
• Wrap one's head around (something): To understand something complex or surprising.
  • I can't wrap my head around these new regulations yet.

Verb

1. deal with (a problem or a subject)
   • I still have not come to grips with the death of my parents